Licensing · Cosmetology
NIC National Cosmetology Theory Exam — Practice Exam
The written (theory) exam most states use for the cosmetology license: infection control, anatomy and chemistry, hair care, cutting, styling and chemical services, skin care and nail care.
Questions last checked against the official sources on October 6, 2026.
The real exam at a glance
- Exam
- 110 questions (100 scored), 90 minutes
- Weights
- Scientific concepts 35%, hair 45%, skin 10%, nails 10%
- Outline
- NIC Cosmetology Theory CIB, effective July 2022
- Practical
- Separate NIC practical exam in most states
What you'll practise
Try a question
Which client should not receive high-frequency or galvanic electrical treatments?
- A client with a pacemaker or metal implants
- A client with oily skin
- A client who wears glasses
- A client with short hair
Show the answer
A. A client with a pacemaker or metal implants — Electrical currents can interfere with devices and implants.
Sample questions by topic (in English)
- Infection control
- Anatomy: hair
- Hair and scalp disorders
- Skin disorders
- Anatomy: muscles and bones
- Chemistry
- Hair care
- Tools and safety
- Haircutting
- Hair styling
- Haircolor
- Chemical texture services
- Skin care
- Nail disorders
- Nail services
Ask the examiner
Ask about this exam: why an answer is wrong, a grammar point, or “quiz me on …”.
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Questions about the NIC Cosmetology Theory
Is this the official NIC Cosmetology Theory?
No. Semplr is independent and not affiliated with the exam body. We write every question ourselves, in the official format and at the official level.
What is the real NIC Cosmetology Theory like?
Exam: 110 questions (100 scored), 90 minutes. Weights: Scientific concepts 35%, hair 45%, skin 10%, nails 10%. Outline: NIC Cosmetology Theory CIB, effective July 2022. Practical: Separate NIC practical exam in most states.
How is my practice marked?
Instantly. You see your score against the pass mark, and an explanation for every question — including the ones you got right.
Can I take it on my phone?
Yes. The whole mock exam works on a phone, and your progress is saved in your browser.
Ready for a full run?
One sitting, real timing, then your score against the pass mark.
Start the free mock exam